Factors that prevent or assist the integration of assistive
technology into the workplace for people with spinal cord injuries:
Perspectives of the users and their employers and co-workers
Affiliations: The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland,
Australia
Note: [] Department of Occupational Therapy, The University of
Queensland, Brisbane, Qld 4072, Australia. Tel.: +61 7 3365 1664; Fax: +61 7
3365 1622; E-mail: [email protected]
Abstract: {\it Objective:} This paper examines the barriers faced by people
with Spinal Cord Injuries (SCI) when integrating their Assistive Technology
(AT) into the workplace, as well as factors that contribute to successful
integration. {\it Study design:} A qualitative research design was used, and
indepth interviews were undertaken with five people with SCI, three of their
employers and two co-workers. {\it Results:} Results indicated that in addition to the barriers
previously outlined in the literature related to funding the technology, time
delays, information availability, training and maintenance, other issues were
highlighted. These included the attitudes of the parties involved, the level of
responsibility they assumed in the process, and their knowledge and awareness
of AT and AT services, as well as issues associated with the work
environment. {\it Conclusions:} Implications for service providers are considered
in relation to these barriers and the factors that promoted successful
integration. Limitations of this study are noted and recommendations for future
research are highlighted.
